Maine fishing nonprofits get federal funds to develop industry [Video]

The Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries and the Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association both received grant money from NOAA to support and develop programming.

PORTLAND, Maine — There’s a push to get younger people interested in the commercial fishing industry and to assist those already in it.

To do that, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration awarded two Maine nonprofits federal funding through the Young Fishermen’s Development Grant to support training and workforce development.

“We are going to be using the funding to make a few videos for commercial fishermen,” Monique Coombs, the director of community programs for the nonprofit, said. “One about physical health, one about mental health, and one about career resiliency.”

While the tides of commercial fishing are changing, Coombs said the toll of the industry remains.

“While commercial fishing is not only one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States, it’s also incredibly demanding on …